May 16, 2013 The sheep got a serious haircut last week at the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo's Indiana Family Farm area: Each animal shed about 10 pounds of woolly hair.

Roxy, an 8-year-old female, and Jerry, her 7-year-old son, got their semiannual shearing at the hands of zookeeper Sarah Sloan.

Wielding heavy-duty electric clippers, Sloan carefully trimmed every inch of each sheep, creating mounds of wool on the barn floor. The wool is donated to local artisans, who spin it into yarn for knitting.

"Shearing helps keep the sheep comfortable now that the weather is warmer," Sloan said. "If we didn't shear them, their wool would continue to grow and become matted."

After their extreme makeovers, Roxy and Jerry appeared unfazed by their now-slim silhouettes.

"After shearing, we can get a good look at their body condition, and they'll be a lot more comfortable in the hot weather," said Sloan. The sheep already have their next haircut appointment booked for August.

To see how the sheep looked AFTER their shearing, click on http://kidszoo.org/extreme-makeover-sheep-edition/.If you shopped on Zoo Day, May 15, at your local Kroger or Scott's store, use your receipt for free child zoo admission with a paying adult on Saturday!

Voting for your favorite zoo animal continues at the checkout for Jelani the giraffe, Fishbone the sea lion, or Bugara the tiger. All proceeds from voting go directly to your non-profit zoo. Get details at http://kidszoo.org/programs-and-events/.

Thanks to Kroger, Scott's and all shoppers for supporting the zoo!School's almost out — what will your kids be doing all summer?

Register now for an exciting week of Summer Safari Day Camp at the zoo! Now in its 24th year, Summer Safari fosters a love of nature and animals while encouraging teamwork and friendship.

Register online now — sessions are filling fast! Contact us at 427-6808 or education@kidszoo.org with questions.

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